disaster 5th 1108_5th ed 2011 - Homeland Security and Emergency ...

DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT
Disasters happen anytime and anywhere -- and, when disaster strikes, you
may not have much time to respond. And sometimes services may be cut
off or first responders can’t reach people right away. Would you and your
family be prepared to cope until help arrives
Both FEMA and the Red Cross recommend keeping enough supplies in
your home to meet your family’s needs for at least three days (we suggest
2 to 4 weeks or more in home.) Once disaster threatens or hits, you may not
have time to shop or search for supplies ... but, if you’ve gathered supplies
in advance in your Disaster Supplies Kit, your family could
handle an evacuation or shelter living easier. And since everything is all
together in one place… all you gotta do is GRAB & GO!
Put items you’d most likely need (water, food, first aid, emergency items,
etc.) in a container that is easy-to-carry and that will fit in your vehicle. For
example, a large trash can or storage container with a lid that snaps shut
tightly (some even come with wheels), or a waterproof backpack or large
duffel bag (waterproof, if possible) would be useful.
We’re also including suggestions for a CAR KIT and a CLASSROOM /
LOCKER / OFFICE KIT since these are usually the most common places
you would be if and when a disaster strikes.
There are seven basic categories of supplies you should stock in your home
kit: water, food, first aid supplies, tools and emergency supplies,
sanitation, clothing and bedding, and special items.
Take advantage of sales and stock up as you can -- also put dates on food
cans or labels to show when they were purchased. Supplies should ALL
be checked every 6 months to make sure they are still good and working!
We suggest you mark dates on your calendar and have the entire family help
check all the items together. It’ll be good quality time with the family and
give you all a chance to update any phone numbers or information that has
changed.
WATER
A normally active person needs to drink at least 2 quarts (2 litres) of water
each day and possibly as much as a gallon (4 litres) a day.
[ ] Store one gallon of water per person per day (two quarts/litres for
drinking and two quarts/litres for food preparation and sanitation).
14 www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325